Copper-Catalyzed Aerobic Oxidative C(aryl)OH Bond Functionalization of Catechols with Amines Affording Benzoxazoles

The first copper-catalyzed aerobic oxidative C(aryl)OH bond functionalization of catechols is reported. Under air, at room temperature, in the presence of a copper catalyst, catechols react with amines to produce the corresponding benzoxazoles in high yields. Mechanistic studies suggest that the reaction proceeds via an intriguing competitive oxidation and a synergetic catalysis between catechol and amine.